Successful tobacco transplant production in North Carolina hinges on water quality and proper nutrient levels in the float solution, according to the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Growers are advised to begin by testing their source water.
“Alkalinity, pH, sodium and chloride issues are the most common water quality problems we see with float bed source water in North Carolina,” said Dr. Kristin Hicks, Plant/Waste/Solution/Media Lab Director of the Agronomic Services Division. “By getting the source water tested, growers can address any of these issues early on before they have a chance to impact transplant quality. The results from testing and making adjustments can be quite significant.”
After mixing fertilizers into the bays, growers should verify target nutrient concentrations by sending a sample of their nutrient solution for analysis through the Agronomic Services Division.
The test evaluates total alkalinity, pH, electrical conductivity (soluble salts), and concentrations of 12 essential plant nutrients including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, iron, manganese, zinc, copper, boron, chloride plus sodium. The NCDA&CS Solution Analysis Report provides this data along with agronomist recommendations for nutrient management.
To collect samples for testing:
– Use a clean plastic bottle like a 16-ounce soda or water bottle.
– For source water: run it for 5 to 10 minutes before collecting from tap or emitter using code “ST.”
– For nutrient solutions: ensure fertilizer is mixed and dissolved before collecting from emitter using code “NT.” Specify if using organic nutrients.
Each sample must be labeled with an ID and accompanied by a Solution Analysis Submission form available online or at various locations.
Results are typically ready within two to four business days after receipt of samples at a cost of $5 per sample collected in North Carolina.
Samples should be mailed to:
Mailing address (USPS):
1040 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699
Physical address (UPS/FedEx):
4300 Reedy Creek Rd
Raleigh NC 27607
For further guidance on sample collection or report interpretation visit [NCDA&CS website](https://www.ncagr.gov/divisions/agronomic-services/solution-analysis/growers) or contact them at 919-664-1606. Regional agronomists and county NCSU Cooperative Extension agents also provide advice. A list of agronomists is available [here](https://www.ncagr.gov/divisions/agronomic-services/field-services).
